He was given squad No 55 by the League One side when he was a mascot for the day back in August.

Joshua, who is being cared for in a hospice, is too poorly to attend the game but his name will be on the team sheet, his shirt will hang in the dressing room before the game and then take pride of place on the subs’ bench.

Dale Manager Keith Hill said: “It is a real honour to name Joshua McCormack as a substitute for tonight’s game.